A derby game is a big event and requires individual brilliance from the players to win and the same is expected in the Soweto derby.
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Local giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will have the country at a standstill – at least for 90 minutes – on Friday afternoon.
This is when the famous Soweto derby takes the stage at the FNB Stadium where over 90 000 spectators will be in attendance.
The last derby was won by Yusuf Maart’s spectacular long-range shot that left Siyabonga Mpontshane wanting the earth to open up and quickly swallow him up.
Maart was on the Chiefs side of the field when he saw Mpontshane come off his line and unleash a shot.
The Soweto derby has produced heroes over the years and it will be interesting to see who takes center stage this time around.
Here we take a look at three players from each side who have the potential to be derby heroes if that happens.
The Kingmakers
Commander Kaizer
- Brandon Peterson – The Amakhosi keeper has been in good form this season and kept several clean sheets before last weekend’s disaster. He will be looking to recapture his form and win back supporters who are now doubting the team’s ability.
- We trust Sithebe – On the day, Sithebe can bring the team. He tried last weekend but was overshadowed by Golden Arrows’ Siyabonga Khumalo. Sithebe can take shots from outside the box and who knows, maybe he will open his account in the derby.
- Ashley Du Preez – Du Preez missed some good chances in the last derby. He had two incidents where he came one on one with Mpontshane. His tenure could see him get that chance again, and he might use it wisely this time.
Orlando Pirates
- Monapule Saleng – He has been in scintillating form this season and should show his skills in the big game. And none bigger than the Soweto derby. If Saleng does what he has done, Chiefs fans are in for some embarrassing moments.
- Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo – The small midfielder has shown good signs at Pirates but needs to settle down. And the derby provides a great platform for them to show that they are for real. He has the ability to shoot from a distance.
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- Terrence Dzvukamanja – He is just finding his form and has scored a few goals in the last few games. He also had some assists and scored and a derby win for the Pirates could be something to cherish for the Bucs faithful.